Streetwise Youth Officer

About the role

The Shire of Carnarvon is looking for a Streetwise Youth Officer (position RJED3, Level 3) within its Lifestyle & Community department. Reporting to the Youth Team Lead, the officer works with other youth stakeholders to support young people in Carnarvon through a flexible, two-faceted approach to youth engagement and service delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Engage with street-present young people, especially those at risk and spending time in the CBD and public spaces, building positive relationships and encouraging them to reconnect with school or services.
• Link young people, where appropriate, to safe places and support that promotes wellbeing and development.
• Support youth programs and activities such as after-school programs, school holiday activities and youth-focused events, and help with broader community or Shire events where youth engagement is key.
• Build trust and encourage participation so young people feel safe, supported and connected.
• Contribute to community safety by reducing youth-related incidents, loitering and antisocial behaviour in CBD hotspots, and improve safety and wellbeing through de-escalation and linking people to the right support.
• Apply the Shire's core values, uphold a safe work environment and WHS obligations, and comply with the Local Government Act (WA) 1995 and other relevant legislation.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience working with young people, especially those at risk, disengaged or street-present.
• Understanding of youth development, trauma-informed practice and behaviour management strategies.
• Ability to build rapport with young people from diverse backgrounds and knowledge of local youth issues, social factors and community services in the Carnarvon region.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in dynamic or high-pressure situations.
• Desirable: flexibility to work rostered hours, including some weekend work.

Required skills

• Values-based approach in the workplace.
• Effective communication, including de-escalation.
• Discretion and confidentiality.

Pre-employment screening is required: National Police Clearance (less than 6 months old), medical screening and alcohol and other drug screening. Applicants must submit an up-to-date resume and a cover letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria.